On Thursday last week, the Fair Work Commission (FWC) confirmed its decision to reduce Sunday penalty rates from double time (200%) to time and a half (150%). It will come as no surprise that retailers are feeling pretty positive about the move. 

Appliance Retailer spoke to a number of retailers from around the country who shared their thoughts on the outcome.

David Dorsett-Lynn from Dorsett Retail in Western Australia described the decision as a “very fair outcome” for the industry.

“We have had a penalty system designed to keep stores and cafes closed on Sunday so we could all go to church but the world changed when retail gained the flexibility to open – and customers love it. However, it is an economic disaster for retailers with most finding weekend and public holiday trade hard to make money from,” he told Appliance Retailer.

“I would love to see less casual employees working penalty hours part time to support university and more people making a career of retail. The penalty rate cut is a step in that direction as it provides a bit more flexibility for employers to reward key full-time employees and that might encourage people to make a career out of retail,” he explained.

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This story first appeared in Appliance Retailer.